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From trainer Beth Stahlecker:
Week 13 updates:
13 weeks sounds like a long time, but it's also gone really quickly. When I consider he's only had the halter on for a month, he's made great progress. The big update from the last week or so is that he trailer loads, and he has been sat on. He took it all in stride. I really only have 2 more weeks of training as we'll be on vacation for 10 days until about 3 days before the competition.
But I'm excited to see what we can accomplish!
been sat on with bareback pad. trailer loads walks across tarp ponies can be haltered and caught without issue gives to light pressure for leading, backing, lateral flexion can be "sent" through gates, over obstacles, etc. loves to jump! had all 4 feet picked out (will be trimmed, most likely with mild sedation before the Showdown) can be fly sprayed saddledWill continue to work on:
- Lunging (not a huge fan, but I also don't see a huge need for it)
- Tricks/more obstacles and desensitizing (he's smart and food motivated!)
- A few more sits, maybe a ride in the round pen
- Hauled somewhere
- working out the occasional bit of a bolt. Attributing it to "baby brain", he sometimes will try to get away on the lead, or if he gets anxious he walks quickly around. But, for a horse who has only been halter broke for a few weeks, it's totally workable. He hasn't gotten away from me since the first week.
Twister is a great beginner mustang. He's gentle and quiet, learns quickly, and has a soft eye. I'd love to continue his training after the Showdown, if given the chance. I think starting him under saddle will be very straightforward, but I'd like him to physically mature more before working that hard.
Enjoy some pics of what he's been up to, including some great official ones by Spenser Pederson. I'll post some videos this week, also.